Layout
- Your name, address and contact details at the top.
- The date.
- The employer's name and address as given in the advert.
- Salutation: Dear Sir/Madam, or the person's name if given.
- Subject line: for example, APPLICATION FOR THE POSITION OF ACCOUNTS ASSISTANT (REF: ADD IF GIVEN).
- Body of two to four short paragraphs.
- Closing and your name.
The body
Paragraph one states the job and where you saw it. Paragraph two shows how your skills match. Paragraph three says you are available and attaches your CV.
Closing correctly
Use Yours faithfully after Dear Sir/Madam, and Yours sincerely after a named person.
Enclosures
List attachments at the end, such as CV and certificates, only if the advert asks for them.
Checks
Keep it to one page and follow the advert's instructions on how to submit.